How Much Does It Cost to Open a Restaurant in Denver?
Complete 2025 startup cost guide for opening a restaurant in Denver, CO. Get accurate estimates based on local rent, labor, permits, and market conditions.
$7,000
Avg Monthly Rent (2000 sq ft)
$14.42
Minimum Wage/Hour
$1,500
Full Liquor License
3.4
Restaurants per 1,000 People
Startup Costs by Restaurant Type in Denver
Food Truck
Mobile food service with lower overhead
Fast Casual
Counter service with fresh, quality food
Casual Dining
Full-service restaurant with moderate prices
Fine Dining
Upscale restaurant with premium experience
Cafe / Coffee Shop
Coffee-focused with light food options
Bar / Nightclub
Alcohol-focused venue with entertainment
Quick Service (QSR)
Fast food with drive-thru or counter service
Ghost Kitchen / Virtual
Delivery-only kitchen with no dine-in
Sample Cost Breakdown: Casual Dining in Denver
Based on a 3,000 sq ft restaurant with full liquor service
Denver Restaurant Market Insights
Local Market Tips
- Health-conscious outdoor lifestyle market
- Craft beer scene is exceptional
- Rapid population growth creates opportunities
- Altitude affects cooking - adjust recipes
Popular Cuisines in Denver
Population
715,522
Median Income
$78,177
Key Cost Factors in Denver
Planning Tools
Opening a Restaurant in Denver: What You Need to Know
Denver, Colorado is a above average costs compared to national average for restaurant startups. With a population of 715,522 and a median household income of $78,177, the market offers 3.4 restaurants per 1,000 residents.
Cost of Living Impact
Restaurant startup costs in Denver are approximately 25%above the national average. The minimum wage of $14.42/hour significantly impacts labor costs, which typically represent 25-35% of operating expenses.
Key Considerations for Denver
- Health-conscious outdoor lifestyle market
- Craft beer scene is exceptional
- Rapid population growth creates opportunities
- Altitude affects cooking - adjust recipes
Popular Restaurant Concepts
The most successful cuisine types in Denver include Mexican, Craft Beer, Farm-to-Table, BBQ, Asian. Consider market saturation and competition when choosing your concept.